We’ve been blogging for a while now about the wonderful places South Africa has to offer and we are overwhelmed with the support that we’ve received especially with a strong twitter community where we’ve found so excellent people who have a similar passion to us.

So on behalf of everyone here at luxury safari holidays we wish you a very merry xmas and a happy 2010.

Due to Africa’s rich wildlife areas and acres of national parks, the tourist industry is strictly monitored to ensure the protection of the native species and protection of future safaris. These restrictions have therefore changed the tourism landscape with the majority of resorts offering high end luxury and 5 star experiences.

Each national park contains a handful of game lodges each offering sublime services and opulent accommodation.

Kruger National Park, South Africa is a prime example of the excellent array of lodges and the impeccable high standards that each lodge adheres to.

If you are looking for a luxury south african safari I have to recommend Lion Sands.

Lions Sands is an excellent camp within Sabie Sands Game Reserve, just north of Kruger National Park.

Lion Sands is situated on the banks of the Sabie River offer excellent views of the wildlife and surrounding area. The lodges are impeccable with luxury and attention to detail apparent in all aspects of the camp.

The suites are personal and private offering serenity and privacy whilst giving you the opportunity to engage with nature, with exceptional views and private outdoor showers.

The influence of European-African design is exceptional with robust décor and sumptuous furnishings. All this set in the plains of Africa is a delightful contrast.

The Sabie River is the Pièce de résistance of Lions Sands as wildlife travel from miles around  to bathe and drink in its waters, it’s close proximity of the river not only guarantees ever changing vistas but safaris unlike any other, river safaris!

River Safaris are simply breathtaking, as you cruise down the river a plethora of wildlife seems to fill your view. The feeling of serenity is simply found nowhere else in the world.

Royal Malewane opened in January 2000 and is coming up to 10 years in the industry, it is now one of the finest hotels in South Africa offering exquisite standards in every single element of the hotel.

The accommodation consists of suites and “royal” suites. The Royal Suites are something to behold with the world’s most rich and famous frequenting this resort year upon year. The anonymity and feeling of seclusion is one of the many reasons why high profiles like to come back. The suites come with private pools, gazebos decks and decadent interiors. The suites come with complimentary butler and chef along with personalized and private game drives with 4 complimentary massages each and every day.

If personal privacy is difficult to find Royal Malewane give you the opportunity to benefit from the use of the hotels private helicopter and Learjet.

Once at the resort the worries and trouble easily subside. Royal Malewane Spa is recognized by Tatler as one of the Best 101 Spas in the world, with world class bath treatments and hydrotherapy.

The resort’s philosophy continues through to spa treatment ensuring that quality is a standard and that your experience will personal and unforgettable.

The restaurants reiterate the importance of quality creating exceptional cuisine from only the freshest the ingredients. The dining area is set outside under a Bedouin tent overlooking a frequently visited waterhole offer the perfect view to match the wonderful food. Award winning chef John Jackson heads the kitchen where the ratio of staff to client is a luxurious 4:1!

The wine selection is the icing on the cake for me as it is a showcase for the finest wines in the region.

The sommeliers and wine waiters offer inspired descriptions and accurate advice making sure the right bottle is always on the table.

The majority of the safaris are based in the north east region of South Africa, based in and around the Kruger National Park.

The Kruger National Park was first founded in 1895 and was named after Paul Kruger president of the Transvaal Republic. The park was increased in 1926 and official named Kruger National Park.

As of 2009, the park has counted approximately:

• 27,000 African Buffalo
• 350 African Hunting Dogs
• 350 Black Rhinoceros
• 4,509 White Rhinoceros
• 17,797 Burchell’s Zebras
• 500 Bushbucks
• 200 Cheetahs
• 300 Common Eland
• 5,114 Giraffes
• 5,798 Greater Kudus
• 3,000 Hippopotamus
• 1,500 Lions
• 1,000 Leopards
• 2,000 Spotted Hyenas
• 11,672 Elephants
• 5,000 Waterbuck
• 9,612 Blue Wildebeest
• 90,000 Impalas

South African Safaris offer luxury for families and couples giving everyone the opportunity to sample decedent accommodation as well as award winning food and service.

The weather varies throughout South Africa, often creating pockets of ecosystems gathering around waterholes and riverbanks; much of Africa’s wildlife migrates every year to these affluent areas, which turns into a flourishing green oasis seasonally every year. The South African savannah is exquisite all year round with flora and fauna existing prolifically in the area. There are countless reasons to have a safari in South Africa, but the strongest reason of all, is simply because you can see nature working perfectly and harmoniously, together.

Beautiful lodges and personal 4×4 safaris with experienced rangers and trackers are simply the start to a luxury South African safari. The safaris are often conducted in search of the Big Five, along with birdlife and water safaris. The lodges rarely hold more than 20 giving you the chance to bond with fellow safari goers as well as having the space to have some private personal time, giving you the perfect environment to socialize and relax.

Camps and resorts offer a wonderful mix of “jungle chic” and raw African appeal, the combination is exquisite offering more than you could possibly imagine, there is a certain je ne sais quoi viewing a herd of elephants from a silk lined bed, or watching lions play from your personal plunge pool, the lodges offer something awe inspiring and infinitely memorable.

The most incredible part of South Africa is the abundance of wildlife and game which populate every national park and nature reserve across South Africa. Safaris are the perfect way to see South Africa in all its splendour. South Africa is your gateway to an African Safari tour of a lifetime. Safaris are undertaken all over South Africa including Karoo National Park, Cape Town, Kruger National Park and many more.

South Africa has more national parks and private game reserves than any other country on the continent, allowing you to find a Safari that specifies to your needs or expectations, either following the big 5 in Kruger National Park or whale watching and shark diving from Cape Town.

Cape Town offers a safari experience unlike any other, not only can you track wildlife on the plains but also on the water. Cape Town is a prime location for whale watching.

Kruger National Park is the perfect safari location throughout the world. The park is 20,000 square kilometres and is 350km north to south spanning the north east of the country.

The Kruger National Park has incredible diversity amongst the different types of safari available to visitors; this is due to the wide range of wildlife that inhabit the national park and the sheer size of the park itself. The Kruger National Park is the largest nature reserve in South Africa and therefore has the largest range of Safari lodges.

Safari lodges are dotted throughout Kruger national park, giving you a more intimate and personal holidaying experience.

Safari Lodges are a decadent way of getting closer to nature, set in remote locations in nature reserves across South Africa, the Safari Lodges offer more than simply a bed for the night.

The Safari Lodges are often on a full board basis and you can benefit from the highest quality produce with excellent cuisine prepared for every meal of the day. Each lodge has experienced guides and trackers who will take you around the African bush.

“You arrive in South Africa landing on the sticky tarmac of Cape Town International Airport. The sun bounces off the glass surrounding the terminal creating a shimmering box in which to collect your luggage. The rigmarole of checking in to South Africa is swift and unimposing, you get to the exit, coaches and taxis waiting.

Let the holiday begin!!”

The hustle of Cape Town is something to be savoured, so simply passing through would be a missed opportunity.

The Cape Grace Hotel is a perfect place to start your luxury holiday. The hotel is classically inspired and encapsulates the enchantment and intrigue of South Africa perfectly making it the only possible place to start your luxury South African Safari.

The Cape Grace Hotel

The hotel is situated on the harbour offering stunning panoramic views across the quay and into the ocean.

Cape Town is steeped in history with evidence of the apartheid years still visible as tourist attractions which act as a shocking reminder of years gone by.

A particular point of interest is Robben Island off the coast of Cape Town. Robben Island in recent history was primarily used as a prison to segregate political prisoners and activists. Nelson Mandela was held here for 27years. It is a sobering experience, but also a once in a lifetime opportunity to visit and one that shouldn’t be missed.

Cape Town offers all the modern amenities, with a great market and contemporary retailers. The tourism industry is thriving in Cape Town and you can therefore benefit from great service and facilities.

“After a couple of days perusing through the streets of Cape Town sampling fresh seafood and exquisite local cuisine it is time to set off further into the African savannah to sample more of what South Africa has to offer. How about further west, “Wine Country”…hmmm…There’s an idea.”

Franschhoek is about 2-3 hours west of Cape Town nearer to central South Africa rather than the coast. The landscape appears more “European” than African; luckily the heat will remind you instantly where you are. Franschhoek is a large rural area filled with grapes and vineyards. South Africa has now confirmed to the world that it is a serious competitor in new world wines. Australia, South America and South Africa are becoming the core countries pursuing winemaker’s recognition.

Le Quartier Français is one of the finest hotels in the world let alone Africa. The restaurant was voted 37^th in the reputable S.Pallegrino “best restaurant” award. The food is therefore out of this world, and the accommodation itself lives up to its Michelin star counterpart.

The rooms are elegantly designed with a great feel of contemporary design. The rooms each have a traditional wood burning fireplace to give a wonderful balance between old and new. ICi is one of the restaurants on the resort offering an incredible breakfast each and every morning.

Once you have taken breakfast the rest of the day is up to you. You can explore the region of Franschhoek visiting individual winemakers and vineyards sampling South Africa’s finest export, or you can

• Môreson and Bread & Wine for the ultimate wine and food experience
• Golf courses within fifteen minutes drive – Pearl valley and Paarl Golf Course
• Tennis courts
• Hiking and biking excursions
• Horse-riding and wine tasting on horseback
• Paragliding and helicopter trips
• Chocolate tasting
• Great restaurants and wineries to visit

I think because of its produce the area of Franschhoek is certainly an adult’s playground offering the finest luxuries no matter what your request.

“After a couple of days soaking up the sun, atmosphere and wine, it’s time to head out to the plains of Africa.

The real Africa is waiting, the chance for safari.

Heading further west will bring you to the largest National Park in Africa.

Kruger National Park.

Leaving Franschhoek is the first step to a genuine adventure, a chance to explore some of the most picturesque landscapes in the world. Keep the camera on standby or at least within arm’s reach. The difficult thing about an incredible moment is that they are easily missed. Pack the camera!!”

Setting off to Kruger fills you with excitement, the chance to release the “inner-attenborough”.

Game lodges are dotted throughout Kruger National Park, each with its own incomparable views and game drives. Wildlife is rife throughout Kruger, giving you the opportunity to see the big 5 as well as exceptional birdlife.

The Royal Malewane lodge is one of the finest lodges in the entire park. It is a place for people who want to get away from modern life and really engage themselves with Africa. All suites are based in the African bush in an unspoilt environment giving astonishing views of landscape and wildlife alike.

Game drives are held throughout the day giving you a chance to see a plethora of wildlife, from Lions and elephants to exquisite bush and tree dwellers, what more would you need from a luxury safari in South Africa.

The Lodge manages to bring luxury to the most bucolic place on earth, the combination of opulence and the sounds of wildlife calling throughout the night is a combination like no other.

South Africa is a place that you will be talking about for years after you leave. It’s an emotional thing. I can’t imagine bonding with London, New York, Tokyo etc in a way you can bond with South Africa.

It has everything!

Discover the possible potential for a South African Safari.

There is little doubt a Southern African safari will probably be one of the highlights of your life and if you follow the advice of seasoned operators and abide by the rules enforced to protect you and your family, there is little to no risk involved.

Crime not an issue

The remote areas of Southern Africa, be it the Kingdom of Swaziland, Botswana, Lesotho, South Africa Namibia or Zambia, are arguably a whole lot safer than some of the dubious areas in any large cosmopolitan city and crime plays little to no part in Southern African safaris.

The one area of concern for visitors to Southern Africa is the relatively high incidence of malaria in certain parts of the region. Over a million deaths occur each year from this disease carried by mosquitoes but there are a number of precautions you and your family can take to protect you from this debilitating and sometimes fatal illness.

Malaria can easily be avoided

Mosquitoes are particularly prevalent after rain and are generally at their most active at night.

One of the simplest precautions is to wear long trousers, long-sleeved tops and thick socks during the danger times.

Thankfully there are a number of lotions, potions and creams that can be applied directly to the skin that will prevent mosquitoes from biting you but it is also wise to take a course of prophylactics before and during your safari.

Attacks by wild animals are rare and can be avoided

Wild animals are exactly that – wild – and it is important to remember to treat all animals with the greatest respect. In a decade, only 7 tourists have died due to attacks by wild animals.

•    Three of four deaths accredited to lions occurred when tourists carelessly approached the pride on foot.

•    In the 2 fatalities involving hippos, both victims flagrantly disregarded the rules and were out of their vehicles at the time.

Statistics reveal that these attacks are highly uncommon and as long as you take sensible precautions and adhere to the rules, you will be perfectly safe.

Choice is never an issue when considering an African Safari with prospective safari seekers presented with any number of destinations, each offering it’s own unique twist on adventure and education. Let’s face it, an African Safari shouldn’t just be a sight-seeing tour, it should also be an educational experience, one which should leave a lasting impression and a lifetime of memories.
Here’s a shortlist of possible destinations:
South Africa
Despite South Africa’s turbulent past, it offers a combination of both modern and historic destinations and is home to Kruger National Park,one of the world’s first wildlife conservation parks. South African also has a lot to offer in the way of marine biology and when booking a tour, be sure to include these areas as part of your itinerary. Depending on the level of comfort and length, tours can range at a cost of a few hundred dollars up to $10,000.
Tanzania
Tanzania is a wildlife haven and is home to two of the world’s most famous landmarks, Serengeti National Park and Mount Kilimanjaro. However, it’s Tanzania’s lesser known parks that make it an African Safari dream destination. Ngorongoro, Lake Manyara and Tarangire aren’t as famous as the Serengeti but each is a must see when travelling through this fauna and flora rich country.
Kenya
An African Safari in Kenya means getting close and personal with some of the most recognisable wildlife in the world. Home to the famous Masai Mara National Park, lions, elephants, rhinos and a myriad of other species are prevalent and spotted in Masai Mara making it a photo rich environment. Surrounding game reserves such as Samburu and Amboselli frank Kenya’s standing as an African safari haven. Tours come in all shapes and sizes ranging from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars.
Botswana
Botswana has too many highlights to mention in this short summary but for those with a bit of an adventurous spirit and a love of dangerous game, then it’s the place to go. Moremi Game reserve in the eastern Okavango Delta is a must visit for lovers of big cats such as lions, cheetahs and leopards. Throw in the Central Kalahari and Chobe National Parks and Botswana enscapulates what Africa, in a traditional sense, is all about. A variety of tours are available, again, ranging from several hundred to several thousand dollars but in all honesty, to get a greater appreciation of Botswana, then an extended stay should seriously be considered.
These are just four African Safari destinations and probably the best known. If you are considering just one visit to this magnificent continent then make it a worthwhile one time wise. Tours don’t just concentrate in one country. For extended stays, consider encompassing at least the quartet of destinations we’ve covered in this article.

Many people in the US would love to travel to Africa for a luxury African safari adventure. Because the North American continent is along way from Africa, most will never book the trip of a lifetime. The experience of Africa should not be missed if at all possible. There is so much to see and do and people can do it all by taking a luxury African safari.

There are several companies that have luxury African safaris in many different countries like Botswana, Kenya, and Namibia. Also included in this category are South Africa, Tanzania, and Zimbabwe.

One of the things that make a safari an African luxury safari is the different choices available for lodging. One great place to lodge is at Kichwa Tempo tented lodge that lies in the Masai Mara. With views looking out over the plains while being pampered in high end tents full of only the best and surrounded with things all Africa.

Another place to visit and stay is in the area of South Africa. A person will want to visit places like Okavango Delta and Victoria falls. Another place to visit is the Etosha National Park. All of these places are world class sights that offer all that luxury money can buy.

Luxury African Safari In East Africa

If the area of eastern Africa is what people want to see then book a luxury African safari to see places like Masai Mara and the Serengeti. While visiting this area of east Africa a great place to stay in the luxurious Mnemba Island lodge. First class accommodations on the island resort with Zanzibarian flair are filled throughout with luxury living while on a luxury African safari.

People can explore the beaches and the jungle area while living better than most people do at home. Africa is truly one of the last great places in the world.

Lastly, taking a luxury African safari will most likely be one of the highlights in a person’s life. With plenty of pictures to take and luxury living, going back home and sharing with friends will bring back the wonderful trip in ones memory. Also, the traveler may want to warn friends that they have enough pictures to last for a long weekend and to be prepared for a long visit.

Taking this ultimate trip will not only stay with the person but it might also push others to take a similar trip in the near future. A luxury African safari may not always be available as people continue to need more space and the land and animals become more stressed with the loss of habitat. Now is the perfect time to take a luxury African safari.

If you are a novice in African safaris, you probably might find yourself overwhelmed with the array of choices that will arrest your sight. If you have already gone there, you might as well know how to plan a tour so as to delve into the deeper wonders of the African safaris. Remember, some solitary locations are far more marvelous than those, which already became traditional destinations.

The safaris, though more famous for the games and wild animals, were not created solely to do just that. You might be busy collecting stones while discarding wonders such as sightings of intriguing insects, varieties of smaller animals and multitudes of panoramic sights.

One of the more indispensable equipments in any African safari vacation is the binoculars as they allow you to see visions even from afar. Though travel companies normally provide binoculars, you might as well bring your own sets as you may prove them more convenient than risking your chance of sharing the tool with another person.

Your exposure to mosquitoes in African safaris can cause you myriad of mosquito diseases which in most cases, deprive you from more enjoyable experiences. To ward off uninvited guests during the night, make it a point to apply mosquito repellants and expose parts of your body as little as possible.

Any self-respecting African safari vacation operators knows that guests are susceptible to certain ailments due the natural elements in wild Africa. Therefore, they are well-equipped with treatments, medications and procedures that will create lesser chances of being affected by one. However, you must still bring with you personal medications such as anti-diarrhea medicine and anti-malaria pills in case you might need them.

You surely would want to reserve memories of experiences that you have undergone during your African safari vacation. If you were to bring a camera, your best bet would be the digital ones. However, for types that make use of films, be careful that you have some good reserve of batteries and films.

Go. Plan a different route. Seek places that you haven’t scoured before and experience wonder that you should not miss.

You can’t off course explore the whole of African safaris on a few days of trip. There simply are too many sights to feed your spirit and too many places where you may see the real and seldomly seen creations.

This is what an African safari may look like-

A spot may feature a snow-capped mountain while another site will let you witness the miracle of aquatic reefs. And there are definitely desserts and endless selections of wildlife. On another spot, you may even see a remarkable waterfall that will let you experience African safari the different way. Not to mention the diversity of culture and traditions, people and norms that form Africa.

It simply has got it all! Even the most amazing wonders that you can imagine may be found lingering in its rich and vast African safaris.

East and Central Africa

Mount Kilimanjaro Ngorongoro Crater countless plains animals prides of lion along with other predators are all found in these African safari regions. It is strange how these two regions harbor the diversity of animals that feeds on its earth. Its amazing how animals like impala, hartebeest, cheetah, buffalo and others coexist harmoniously in African safaris.

South Africa

Though southern African safaris lack the famous wonders that east and central Africa offer, it still has other things to present to its guests. This is the sight most films of life in the safaris are made.

Zimbabwe is often deemed to be the most marvelous place in African safaris. Why not? It is the honors the mighty Victoria Falls.

One of the African safari favorites is the Zambia. It harbors wilderness camps that may be found in national parks such as Kafue National Park and South Luangwa.

To finish your African safari trip, you may find pleasure in the Indian Ocean islands, which cover Mozambique, Madagascar, Malawi, Mauritius and Seychelles Islands. The waters that cover these places are great havens for marine life.